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“As soon as I can e it, si,” Raphael replied, and Pia went utterly still

It was as if so from under her As if someone had punched her in the stomach in the dark

Contrary to ould be expected of an eighty-four-year-old hed heartily “This year, Raphael” His bushy eyebrows scanned Pia’s face “You’ll be happy with him, piccola”

Whatever protest Pia was about to make died at the transfor to ruin the happiness in his face? “Nonno, I’d like to wait until you’re better before we even talk about the plans”

Gio noddedand in love, but remember what happened with Lucia and ave her a kiss on her cheek, his eyes gli with tears “Lucia would approve of who I found to look after you

“Too o rest now”

Who I found to look after you…

The words left a chill on Pia’s skin There was soer on it

The moment Giovanni’s silver head disappeared behind the doors of the house, she jerked away from Raphael

Just when she was beginning to accept that she wanted a relationship with Raphael, the idea ofhis equal, his lover, his wife sent her into a swirl of panic

“Pia, wait”

“No, Raphael I need to—”

She tried to slip away, but he captured her wrist and tugged her closer Her legs tangled with his, her chest rasping against his The man had the most beautiful black eyes And when they focused on her like that, she was afraid she would melt from within That she wouldn’t be able to refuse whatever he coant tone